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During a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on the start of the week, the King was confronted by a protester who questioned him about Prince Andrew's relationship with convicted sex offender Epstein.

The protester inquired how long the King had been known about his brother's association with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "conceal" for Prince Andrew.

Despite the heckling, there were crowds of well-wishers and applause for the monarch, who was visiting the region for an event.

Prince Andrew's links with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The prince, who relinquished his royal duties earlier this month, has strongly denied any misconduct.

"How long have you known about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the police to cover up for Andrew?"

The King remained silent but carried on meeting fans, some of whom shouted "Long live the King". One supporter can be heard asking him for a embrace.

A female bystander outside the cathedral was also observed telling the protester to "leave" and to "be quiet".

Scandal Reignited by Posthumous Publication

The controversy over Prince Andrew's connections to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse allegations detailed in Ms. Giuffre's posthumously-published memoir.

In the publication, the accuser claims she had sexual encounters with the prince on three separate occasions, including one instance with Epstein and "eight other young girls"

Prince Andrew, who agreed to a financial settlement with the plaintiff in recent years, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In 2019, he told a news program he did not recall meeting her "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

New Inquiries Over Finances and Living Arrangements

But in recent times, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to finance his way of life despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has intensified the examination over his living arrangements - even though he made large payments up front, including for improvements.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be called in front of MPs to give evidence about his lease of his residence.

But last week, the authorities refused to give parliamentarians time to debate the royal's titles or his home, despite growing pressure for scrutiny.

The royal household has not issued a statement on whether the Duke of York might relocate of his current residence - or where he might reside.

Related Topics

• The Duke of York
• British Monarchy
• The Monarch